Best Tacoma to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide

Get a Quote Now!

Tacoma to Chicago Movers

Moving from the serene, rain-soaked streets of Tacoma to the bustling, wind-swept avenues of Chicago marks not just a journey across the country, but a thrilling leap into a new chapter of your life. You're leaving behind the City of Destiny, famed for its breathtaking views and close-knit community, to embrace the Windy City, a place renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and deep-dish pizza. Recognizing the significance of this long-distance move, we emphasize the importance of entrusting your belongings to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your adventure to Chicago begins on the right note.

Washington iconArrow iconIllinois icon

Best Tacoma to Chicago Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.33NRAuthorized For HHGContact
First Due Movers9.25A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
People Movers9.16NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Tacoma guide.

5 Best Tacoma to Chicago Moving Companies

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

606 Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.36/10
based on 1,152+ data points

About 606 Movers, Inc.

606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly movi...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Movers
  • Commercial Movers
  • Packing & Unpacking Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
1
Move-tastic! Logo
Exceptional9.35/10
based on 10,649+ data points

About Move-tastic!

What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving c...Read More >>

Services

  • Full Moves
  • Truck Loading and Unloading
  • Interstate Moving Assistance

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers28
Total Annual Miles Moved90,866 (2023)
View Full Review
2
John Volken Academy Movers Logo
Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,571+ data points

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
3
First Due Movers Logo
Exceptional9.25/10
based on 1,542+ data points

About First Due Movers

First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington f...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1990914 / 865709

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved205,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
People Movers Logo
Exceptional9.16/10
based on 3,624+ data points

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Tacoma vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison

Making the leap from Tacoma, WA to Chicago, IL can be quite the adventure, especially when it comes to finding a new neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Tacoma, WA & Chicago, IL , using Tacoma's beloved neighborhoods as a baseline. Discover which Chicago neighborhood mirrors the essence of your Tacoma favorite, ensuring your new surroundings feel familiar and welcoming.

TacomaChicagoHow They're Similar
Proctor DistrictAndersonvilleCulturally rich, family-friendly vibe
Stadium DistrictWrigleyvilleIconic sports culture, historic charm
North EndRavenswoodQuiet, residential with a mix of old and new
HilltopPilsenVibrant arts scene, historic architecture
Old TownOld Town ChicagoShared name, cobblestone charm, historic
EastsideLogan SquareDiverse, artsy community with green spaces
South TacomaBridgeportWorking-class roots, diverse community
Point RustonLakeviewWaterfront views, entertainment options
Lincoln DistrictUptownCultural diversity, vibrant food scene
Sixth AvenueWicker ParkTrendy, bustling nightlife and shopping

In exploring these neighborhoods further, you might find Andersonville's small, independent businesses reminiscent of Proctor District's cozy, community-focused atmosphere. Like Proctor, Andersonville boasts an array of unique shops and charming cafes, creating a warm, inviting neighborhood vibe. If the historic architecture and waterfront leisure of Tacoma's Point Ruston capture your heart, Lakeview in Chicago will enchant you with its scenic Lakeview Park, vibrant theater scene, and diverse entertainment options, ensuring the waterfront lifestyle continues far from the Puget Sound. Whether you're immersing yourself in the trendy, arts-infused air of Wicker Park or indulging in the cultural tapestry of Uptown, Chicago offers a seamless transition from the familiar comforts of Tacoma into exciting new urban adventures.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Tacoma to Chicago

Moving across the country from Tacoma, WA, to Chicago, IL, is a significant life event that comes with its unique set of advantages and drawbacks. This comparison is designed to reflect on the good and bad attributes of relocating from Tacoma, WA, to Chicago, IL, helping you make a more informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Higher Rainfall
  • Smaller Airport
  • Fewer Museums
  • Lower job diversity
  • Less nightlife
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Diverse Seasons
  • Larger Airports
  • More Museums
  • Greater job opportunities
  • Vibrant nightlife
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Less green space
  • More Traffic
  • Larger population
  • Higher living cost
  • Far from ocean
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Stunning nature
  • Less Traffic
  • Close-knit community
  • Affordable housing
  • Access to Pacific Coast

While moving from Tacoma to Chicago means you'll experience diverse seasons in place of constant rainfall, and you’ll find yourself in the heart of a city known for its rich theatrics and vibrant nightlife. Chicago's Art Institute of Chicago and the bustling streets of the Magnificent Mile offer cultural and shopping experiences unmatched by Tacoma. However, nature lovers may miss the proximity to the Pacific Ocean and the serenity of places like Point Defiance Park. With larger airports like O'Hare International, you're better positioned for global travels, yet the hustle of Chicago can be overwhelming compared to the more laid-back nature Tacoma residents are accustomed to. Ultimately, weighing these factors against personal priorities will guide your decision making for a move from Tacoma, WA, to Chicago, IL.

Tacoma vs. Chicago Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Tacoma & Chicago, highlighting an essential part of local culture and living experience. Delve into this culinary guide to be better informed about the food scene awaiting you in your new city.

TacomaChicago
Most iconic local food itemDungeness CrabDeep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishSmoked SalmonItalian Beef
Most popular street food itemTaco TrucksChicago-Style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodVegan PhoVegan Deep Dish Pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Harmon Brewing Co.
  • The Swiss Restaurant & Pub
  • WildFin American Grill
  • Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
  • Portillo’s
  • Alinea
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Tacoma to Chicago, you’ll transition from the Pacific Northwest’s affinity for fresh, seafood dishes like Dungeness Crab and smoked salmon, to the heart of the Midwest's rich, hearty meals exemplified by Chicago's deep dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches. Chicago's iconic food scene is not just about these classic dishes; it also boasts a vibrant street food culture with ubiquitous Chicago-style hot dogs. Vegan residents will be thrilled to know that both cities offer robust vegan menus, but Chicago's vegan deep dish pizza is a unique find. Exploring the distinct neighborhoods will lead you to iconic eateries like Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria in Chicago, which is a must-visit for a taste of authentic local flavors. Whether you're a foodie or just someone who enjoys good food, Chicago's diverse and rich culinary scene has something to offer for everyone.

Tacoma vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a key role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease your transition by comparing top eating spots in Tacoma to their Chicago counterparts, helping you discover new favorite venues . Whether you're craving fine dining or a casual bite, this guide will provide you with a taste of comfort and excitement in your new home.

TacomaChicagoWhat You'll Love
Indochine Asian Dining LoungeLe ColonialOffers a sophisticated French-Vietnamese setting reminiscent of Indochine's ambiance and cuisine.
The TableGirl & The GoatKnown for their innovative dishes that mirror The Table's dedication to unique, locally-sourced meals.
Over the Moon CafeBavette's Bar & BoeufProvides a cozy, romantic atmosphere similar to Over the Moon, with a focus on sumptuous dishes.
WildFin American GrillShaw's Crab HouseBoth offer the freshest seafood selections in a sophisticated yet relaxed environment.
Mio SushiSushi-SanLike Mio Sushi, they serve innovative and classic sushi dishes perfect for foodies seeking quality sushi.
El Gaucho TacomaGibsons Bar & SteakhouseFor those who appreciate the fine dining and steak selection of El Gaucho, Gibsons matches this with its high-end steakhouse experience.
Marcy's Bar & LoungeThe Violet HourOffers a similar speakeasy vibe for cocktails enthusiasts looking for a unique drinking experience.
MSM DeliAl's BeefThough different in their offerings, both are iconic to locals for a quick, delicious bite, notably sandwiches.
Pacific GrillThe PublicanAn emphasis on quality American fare and a vibrant atmosphere aligns closely with Pacific Grill's dining experience.
Doyle's Public HouseThe GageSimilar in their pub atmosphere, offering a wide range of beers and hearty meals to cater to every taste.

In your quest for culinary adventures in Chicago, gems like Le Colonial and Bavette's Bar & Boeuf stand out, encapsulating the essence of Indochine Asian Dining Lounge and Over the Moon Cafe with their unique dining experiences. From the intimate and innovative atmosphere of Girl & The Goat that parallels The Table, to the authentic sushi creations found at Sushi-San that remind one of Mio Sushi, each Chicago dining spot offers a taste of Tacoma's beloved restaurants with a Windy City twist. Whether your preferences sway towards a sophisticated steakhouse or a cozy speakeasy, these establishments cater to every palate, ensuring that your culinary transition is as seamless and enjoyable as finding a new favorite melody.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Tacoma vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, it's vital to evaluate how the real estate landscape differs between your current and future cities. This comparison focuses on key housing aspects, such as cost and lifestyle features, between Tacoma, WA, and Chicago, IL. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision on where you'll call home next.

ComparisonTacomaChicago
Typical Architecture StyleNorthwest CraftsmanChicago Bungalow
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingViews, Green SpaceAccess to Public Transit, Lake Views

In the housing market, Tacoma and Chicago offer distinct living experiences. Tacoma's homes, often in the Northwest Craftsman style, reflect the city's lush, green backdrop and alignment with nature. On the other hand, Chicago's iconic bungalows and high-rise condos highlight the city's dense urban landscape and architectural heritage. Despite Chicago's higher median monthly rent, its urban lifestyle score and walkability are notably superior, demonstrating the city's bustling energy and extensive public transportation network. Additionally, lake views and easy access to public transit are common highlights in Chicago real estate listings, emphasizing the city's appeal to those who prioritize city living and convenience.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL

1. Lincoln Park: With its sprawling namesake park, you'll find plenty of green spaces for walks and the Lincoln Park Dog Park where your furry friend can run off-leash.

2. Lakeview: Home to the popular Wiggly Field Dog Park, Lakeview offers an urban setting with a pet-friendly attitude, hosting numerous pet supply shops and pet-friendly patios.

3. Andersonville: This community-oriented neighborhood not only features pet-friendly dining and shopping but also events like the annual Andersonville Pet Parade, making it a delightful place for pet owners.

Tacoma vs. Chicago Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Tacoma, WA to Chicago, IL, understanding how weather patterns differ between these two cities is crucial. This comparison will help you adjust to your new environment by highlighting key weather-related aspects. Weather differences between Tacoma and Chicago are significant and will influence how you experience each season.

Summer icon
75°F / 53°F

Tacoma, WA

85°F / 65°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 37°F

Tacoma, WA

33°F / 22°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39.5

Tacoma, WA

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4.6

Tacoma, WA

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonTacomaChicago
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, Volcanic EruptionsBlizzards, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Key takeaways from this weather comparison shed light on the adjustments you may need to make when moving from Tacoma to Chicago. For instance, Chicago experiences a colder winter with more snow, which might necessitate investing in warmer clothing and snow removal equipment. Additionally, while both cities have a similar average annual humidity, Chicago enjoys more sunny days per year, offering more outdoor opportunities despite its colder winters. Furthermore, differing natural disaster risks in each area might influence your insurance needs or emergency preparedness plans. Understanding these differences will help ease your transition and prepare you for your new home's climate.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tacoma to Chicago

Moving from one city to another significantly influences your finances. Understanding the cost of living, taxes, and economic landscape between Tacoma and Chicago is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight those financial distinctions to help you prepare financially for your move.

ComparisonTacomaChicago
Avg. Household Income$77,141$66,576
Cost of Living Index109.5116.9
State Income Tax04.95
Avg. Property Tax1.032.10
Avg. Sales Tax10.210.25
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Health Care, RetailFinance, Manufacturing, Information Tech
AffluenceModerateVaried
PovertyModerateHigh
HomelessnessSignificantConsiderable

While both Tacoma and Chicago offer vibrant economic landscapes, the differences in taxes and living costs are noteworthy. In Tacoma, the absence of a state income tax presents an immediate advantage, allowing for potentially more disposable income. However, this advantage may be offset by higher property and sales taxes. The cost of living in both cities hovers above the national average, but Tacoma slightly edges out Chicago, possibly due to the higher housing and utility costs. Furthermore, the economic backbone of both cities differs significantly, with Tacoma leaning towards manufacturing and healthcare, while Chicago thrives on finance and information technology. These differences not only reflect on the average household income but also shape the cities' affluence and poverty levels.

Tacoma vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from Tacoma, WA, to Chicago, IL, understanding the local dynamics can help smooth the transition. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Tacoma & Chicago . By grasping these cultural details, you can better align with your new community.

TacomaChicago
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive on environmental and social issuesProgressive with a historical focus on labor rights and social justice
ReligionMix of Protestant, Catholic, and non-affiliatedDiverse, with a significant representation of Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, and Muslim communities

In both Tacoma and Chicago, you will find a landscape marked by progressive values, particularly in the political and social sectors. Tacoma leans Democratic, but Chicago is known for its strong Democratic roots, deeply intertwined with the city's rich history of labor rights and activism. On religious fronts, both cities host diverse religious communities. However, Chicago boasts a more noticeable presence of major world religions, reflecting its larger and more diverse population. This diversity enriches the sociocultural fabric of the city, offering newcomers a multitude of perspectives and communities to engage with.

Tacoma vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Tacoma, WA, to Chicago, IL, requires a deep understanding of how this is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tacoma & Chicago will impact your daily commute. Here's a glimpse into what to expect.

ComparisonTacomaChicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2734
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible but challengingYes, easily

In Tacoma, the average commute time is shorter, and traffic congestion is less severe compared to Chicago. However, Chicago holds an advantage with its extensive public transit system, rated 9 out of 10, making it possible and even convenient to live without a car. The Windy City's network of buses, trains, and bike-share programs like Divvy Bikes provides comprehensive coverage, ensuring you can easily navigate the city's diverse neighborhoods. In contrast, Tacoma's public transit system, while improving, cannot match Chicago's accessibility and convenience, making car ownership more of a necessity.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Tacoma to Chicago Movers Featured Image
Popular moving routes background image

Popular Tacoma, WA to Illinois Moving Routes